Nature-Lovers 7-Day Itinerary for Bodhgaya in August 2023
Day 1: Mahabodhi Temple
Located in the heart of Bodhgaya
Morning: Experience the serenity of Mahabodhi Temple and meditate at the holy site where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Afternoon: Enjoy a stroll through the temple gardens and explore the peaceful monasteries, both Tibetan and Thai, surrounding the temple. Evening: Take part in the evening prayers and witness the temple illuminated by countless lamps.
Day 2: Dungeshwari Cave Temples
13 minutes (5.8 km) from Mahabodhi Temple
Morning: Visit the holy Dungeshwari Cave Temples where Gautama Buddha practiced austerity before attaining enlightenment. Afternoon: Trek through the lush forests of the Dungeshwari Hills and explore the nearby Sujata Village to learn about the story of Sujata, who offered rice milk to the Buddha before his enlightenment. Evening: Relax at the tranquil retreat of the Maitreya Project Meditation Centre.
Day 3: Barabar Caves
2 hours 40 minutes (100 km) from Dungeshwari Cave Temples
Morning: Explore the ancient rock-cut caves of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hills, dating back to the 3rd century BC and significant in the development of Buddhist architecture. Afternoon: Trek through the surrounding hills and take in the panoramic views of the forests and valleys. Evening: Enjoy a traditional thali dinner at the nearby village of Jehanabad.
Day 4: Rajgir
1 hour 25 minutes (42 km) from Barabar Caves
Morning: Visit the holy city of Rajgir, which is renowned for its natural hot springs and is considered a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Afternoon: Explore the ancient ruins of the Rajgir Fort and the Cyclopean Wall and take a cable car ride to the top of the Ratnagiri Hill to see the spectacular views. Evening: Relax at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa and take part in the evening prayers.
Day 5: Pawapuri
1 hour 15 minutes (30 km) from Rajgir
Morning: Visit the holy city of Pawapuri, which is considered an important site for Jains and the place where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana. Afternoon: Explore the magnificent Jain temples in Pawapuri, including the famous Jal Mandir and Samosharan Temple. Evening: Return to Bodhgaya and enjoy sampling local delicacies at one of the city's many street food stalls.
Day 6: Falgu River
30 minutes (11 km) from Bodhgaya
Morning: Take a peaceful boat ride along the Falgu River and admire the scenic countryside. Afternoon: Visit the nearby village of Chakand, which is known for its beautiful terracotta pottery and handicrafts. Evening: Return to Bodhgaya and take part in a traditional Baul folk music performance at the Pind-Daan Ghat.
Day 7: Muchalinda Lake
15 minutes (5 km) from Bodhgaya
Morning: Enjoy a peaceful walk around Muchalinda Lake, named after the serpent king who protected Gautama Buddha from a storm while he meditated by the lake. Afternoon: Visit the local village of Tergar and learn about the traditional handicrafts and silk weaving techniques. Evening: Relax at the Bodhgaya Royal Residency and enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Recommendations
If you have more time, consider visiting the nearby city of Nalanda, which is home to the ancient Nalanda University, or the city of Patna, which is the capital of Bihar and has many historical sites. Alternatively, you could take a trip to the nearby state of Jharkhand and explore the Palamau Tiger Reserve or the Betla National Park. Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and plenty of sunscreen and water.
Time and Costs Estimates
Transportation (Local buses and taxis) - 7 days (INR 3500)
Hotel Accommodation (3-star) - 7 nights (INR 14000)